Blog Post

Your Dishwasher Doesn't Drain

Dawn Sherwin • August 28, 2024

Dishwashers are a lifesaver in modern households, making kitchen cleanup a breeze. But what happens when your trusty appliance refuses to drain, leaving your dishwasher (and your patience) full of standing water? Before you call a professional, try these straightforward steps to troubleshoot and fix the issue yourself.

Step 1: Safety First

Before starting any repair, ensure your safety by:

  • Unplugging the dishwasher or switching off the circuit breaker.
  • Turning off the water supply to avoid any accidental flooding.


Step 2: Check the Drain Hose

Often, a clogged or kinked drain hose is the culprit behind a dishwasher that won't drain.

  • Locate the drain hose connected to your sink's plumbing or garbage disposal.
  • Inspect the hose for any kinks or obstructions.
  • Flush out any clogs by detaching the hose and using a straightened wire hanger or running water through it.


Step 3: Clean the Filter

A blocked filter can prevent water from draining correctly.

  • Locate the filter at the bottom of your dishwasher.
  • Remove the filter by following the instructions in your dishwasher's manual.
  • Rinse the filter under warm water to remove any debris.
  • Reinstall the filter securely.


Step 4: Inspect the Garbage Disposal

If your dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal, a blockage there could affect drainage.

  • Run the garbage disposal to clear any potential blockages.
  • Check for clogs in the connection between the disposal and the dishwasher drain hose.


Step 5: Examine the Air Gap

An air gap prevents dirty water from backflowing into the dishwasher.

  • Locate the air gap near your sink faucet (if installed).
  • Remove the cover and cap of the air gap.
  • Clean out any debris using a brush or a small pipe cleaner.


Step 6: Test the Drain Pump

The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the dishwasher.

  • Listen for the sound of the drain pump when your dishwasher enters the drain cycle. A silent pump might indicate a problem.
  • Check for obstructions by accessing the drain pump (refer to your manual) and removing any debris.



Step 7: Run a Test Cycle

Once you've addressed potential issues:

  • Reconnect and restore power to your dishwasher.
  • Run a short cycle to see if the water drains correctly.


Call A Rescue Rooter!


If you've tried all these steps and your dishwasher still won't drain, it might be time to call in a professional from A Rescue Rooter in Hamilton.  Persistent problems could indicate more complex issues with the internal components of the dishwasher.


A dishwasher that doesn't drain can be a frustrating issue, but with these steps, you can often resolve the problem quickly and efficiently. For more tips and expert advice, consider reaching out to A Rescue Rooters’ plumbers in Hamilton! They are ready to help you 24/7 and won’t charge you a premium!


A Rescue Rooter…(905) 521-8284!

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